Suryakumar Admitted Anger Over Kishan's Powerplay Strike-Hogging

India Captain Suryakumar Yadav revealed that he was momentarily “angry” with Ishan Kishan during the second T20 International against New Zealand after the opener refused to rotate the strike in the powerplay, even as Kishan went on to produce a match-defining innings in India’s seven-wicket victory on Friday.

Speaking at the post-match presentation, Suryakumar said Kishan’s fearless approach left him surprised, particularly given the early situation in the chase. India were 6 for 2 when Kishan launched an aggressive counterattack, racing to a half-century off just 21 balls and helping India reach 75 for 2 at the end of the powerplay while chasing a daunting target of 209.

“I don’t know what Ishan had for lunch, but I have never seen someone bat that way at 6 for 2 and finish the powerplay on 60-odd,” Suryakumar said. He admitted that he was annoyed when Kishan did not give him the strike during the powerplay but added that the intent shown by the left-hander was exactly what the team management expects from its batters.

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Suryakumar also reflected on his own performance, saying that consistent work in the nets and a solid break helped him regain rhythm. He praised India’s bowlers for pulling things back after New Zealand crossed 110 for 2, limiting the visitors to 208 for 6 despite fears of a much bigger total on a flat surface.

New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner, meanwhile, acknowledged India’s deep batting strength, suggesting that even a total close to 300 might not feel safe against such an aggressive lineup. He said the pressure applied by India from the first ball offered his side valuable lessons ahead of the T20 World Cup.

In the chase, Kishan eventually fell for a blistering 76 off 32 balls, ending a 122-run partnership with Suryakumar, who remained unbeaten on 82 off 37 deliveries. Shivam Dube added a quickfire 36 not out as India completed the chase in just 15.2 overs to take a 2–0 lead in the five-match series.

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